Today's writing task is to compile a list as a way to unlock ideas. Out of the list of topics, I chose the 'Things I've Learned.'

As much as we try to feign tough and unbreakable, we are a product of what we've been through, and as a result it is quite hard for it not to affect us and rub off on our rapport with the world and how we react to everything as we move forward.

An instance is someone who's been betrayed by those they trust the most, such a person becomes distrustful even when the people around them do not have such intentions. They question everyone's motive, and they become so defensive and hard on everyone.

I bet you're wondering how this rambling relates to that list I should be writing. Here's how; I chose to create a list on this topic because I've been through a lot the past couple of years and while I'd prefer not to talk about it or dwell on it, I think I should. I'm exactly how I am right now as a result of the things that I've been through recently, and there are certain things I wish would have gone differently. But wishes are fantasies, they solve nothing.

Somehow I hope that explains what I intended to clarify. Now, here's my list.

Things I've Learned.

• The only person you can ever truly rely on is yourself.
• The world's full of hypocrites who criticize what they cannot have, do or be.
• Sometimes, save yourself the headache and stay out of any issue or situation that doesn't concern you.
• If there's nothing in it for you, don't break your back for others.
• There's a difference between being nice and letting people walk all over you, learn the difference and remember this: nor loyal till you get hunchback.
• You're awesome, stop underselling yourself and your abilities.
• What others think of you is none of your business, they don't know you.
• There is an endless list, if you attempt it, of things that are just not worth it and one is trying to please everyone or worrying about what 'people' think.
• Sometimes talent and potential isn't enough, you need to network with the right people and learn to swim with sharks.
• Read The Mafia Manager by V over and over until you know it by heart. It'll come in handy.
• Take a break sometimes. Relax, let the music play, pour yourself a glass of Scotch and take a deep breath after each sip. Life's hard, no need to overexert yourself for something so fleeting.

There's a lot more I would love to share, but these should suffice for now.